Page 6 – The Fresh Toast

What You Need to Know About Cannabis And Sleep

Maria Loreto

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April 14, 2026

What You Need to Know About Cannabis And Sleep

With sleep struggles rising among young professionals, cannabis is emerging as a natural alternative— here are the tips to help you.

Sleep has become a modern crisis, especially for adults aged 24–40 juggling careers, finances, and nonstop digital stimulation. While over-the-counter options like NyQuil are often used as a quick fix, they are not designed as long-term sleep aids. Even when battling a cold, most experts recommend limiting their use to no more than seven days. Similarly, melatonin has surged in popularity, offering a more natural option—but it doesn’t work for everyone and can take one to two hours to kick in. But there is help – here is what you need to know about cannabis and sleep.

Prescription sleep medications, while effective, come with risks—most notably dependency and diminishing effectiveness over time. This has pushed many younger adults to explore alternatives, including cannabis, as a tool to improve sleep quality.

Emerging research and anecdotal evidence suggest cannabis may help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. For those dealing with occasional sleeplessness caused by stress, anxiety, or minor aches, it can offer short-term relief without needing to build up in the body like some medications. However, using cannabis for sleep isn’t as simple as it sounds. Here are five essential factors to consider.

1. Dosage Matters More Than You Think

Finding the right dose is critical. Too little cannabis may have no noticeable effect, while too much can trigger anxiety or restlessness—ironically worsening sleep. Beginners should start low and go slow, paying attention to how their body responds. Creating a calming nighttime routine—reducing screen time, limiting alcohol, and setting a relaxing environment—can also enhance results.

2. Method of Consumption Impacts Results
How you consume cannabis directly affects how quickly and intensely it works. Smoking or vaping delivers faster effects, making it easier to control timing and dosage. Edibles, on the other hand, take longer to activate—sometimes up to two hours—but often produce longer-lasting effects. Planning ahead is key when choosing this method.

3. Not All Cannabis Is Created Equal
Different strains and compounds produce different outcomes. Products higher in THC are often associated with stronger sedative effects, while CBD-dominant options may promote relaxation without intoxication. Indica strains are traditionally linked to body relaxation and sleepiness, but hybrids and even some sativas can also support sleep depending on the individual. Experimentation—and tracking your response—is essential.

4. The Reality of “Weed Hangovers”
Some users report feeling groggy or sluggish the next morning, especially if they consume too much or use lower-quality products. While typically milder than alcohol hangovers, these effects can impact productivity. Staying hydrated, eating well, and moderating intake can help reduce next-day fatigue.

Changes in sleep and dreams

One of the most noticeable effects cannabis has on sleep is the lack of dreams. This is due to cannabis limiting REM sleep, which is the stage of sleep where dreams are likely to occur. Scientific studies have found REM sleep is important for learning and resting. There’s much we don’t understand when it comes to the relationship between cannabis and sleep. It’s important to monitor your marijuana usage and your sleep habits, especially if you feel like the sleep you’re having is not restful or good for you.

Target’s Big Bet On Hemp

Anthony Washington

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April 13, 2026

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As Target Corporation expands licensed hemp-derived THC offerings, the move highlights growing consumer demand and the retailer’s influence in legitimizing cannabis-adjacent products nationwide.

Target’s big bet on hemp-derived products in Minnesota marks a pivotal moment not just for the retailer, but for the broader cannabis and hemp industry navigating a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

Founded in 1902 as Dayton’s Dry Goods in Minneapolis, Target Corporation has grown into one of the largest retailers in the United States, consistently ranking among the top big-box chains alongside Walmart and Costco. Known for blending mass-market accessibility with design-forward branding, Target has long positioned itself as a trend-sensitive retailer willing to test emerging consumer categories. In today’s retail environment—where experiential products, wellness, and alternative beverages are among the biggest stories—its entry into hemp-derived THC products reflects both consumer demand and strategic foresight.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

Historically, Target has taken a cautious but noticeable approach to cannabis-adjacent categories. The company has stocked hemp-based wellness items such as CBD topicals and supplements in select markets, aligning with broader retail acceptance following the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp nationwide. However, its deeper move into ingestible hemp products—particularly THC-infused beverages—has been more recent and deliberate. A limited pilot program in Minnesota stores laid the groundwork, allowing the company to test compliance, logistics, and consumer interest.

The pilot appears to have paid off. In April 2026, Target secured 72 licenses to sell lower-potency hemp-derived THC edibles and beverages across all its Minnesota locations, making it the largest holder of such licenses in the state. These products fall within Minnesota’s regulated framework, which allows low-dose THC items with strict limits on potency per serving and package. The expansion represents a significant scale-up from its initial 10-store test and signals strong consumer acceptance of cannabis beverages as alternatives to alcohol and traditional wellness products.

The timing is especially notable. Both state and federal regulators are reshaping the hemp market, with Minnesota reopening licensing to accommodate rapid growth while implementing stricter testing and labeling standards. At the same time, a looming federal crackdown on higher-THC hemp products—set to take effect later in 2026—threatens to disrupt much of the industry.

Against this backdrop, Target’s expansion can be seen as a good-faith move for the industry. Rather than exploiting regulatory gray areas, the retailer is operating squarely within Minnesota’s structured, low-potency framework. By securing proper licenses, adhering to dosage limits, and integrating these products into a controlled retail environment, Target is helping normalize compliance and consumer safety standards in a sector often criticized for inconsistency.

Moreover, the company’s involvement brings mainstream legitimacy. Large-scale retailers have the operational discipline, quality control, and public visibility smaller operators often lack. Target’s participation may encourage clearer regulations, improved product standards, and broader acceptance among cautious consumers who may be hesitant to purchase from less familiar outlets.

In a fragmented and uncertain hemp market, Target’s Minnesota expansion stands out as both a calculated business decision and a stabilizing force. As federal rules tighten and state markets mature, such moves could help shape a more transparent, regulated, and sustainable future for hemp-derived products in the United States.

The Current State of Cannabis And The US Military

Terry Hacienda

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April 13, 2026

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Leaders tolerate a long-standing culture of alcohol while navigating the current state of cannabis and the US military

The U.S. military has long maintained a cultural tolerance—if not quiet acceptance—of alcohol use among service members, where drinking has historically been woven into unit cohesion, stress relief, and off-duty life. And today, more people around 35 are reducing there use of alcohol and turning to cannabis for relaxing without full inebriation. Yet the same institution continues to enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy toward cannabis, even as legalization spreads across much of the United States and public opinion shifts dramatically. So here is the current state of cannabis and the US military.

Today, the military’s stance on marijuana remains unequivocal: it is prohibited for all active-duty personnel under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Article 112a criminalizes the use, possession, or distribution of cannabis and related products, including CBD and hemp derivatives, regardless of whether they are legal at the state level. Violations can result in penalties ranging from reprimand to discharge or even court-martial. This prohibition extends to military bases, where cannabis remains illegal even for civilians and in states with fully legal markets.

The policy reflects the military’s prioritization of readiness, discipline, and uniform standards across all branches. Mandatory drug testing and strict enforcement are designed to eliminate any ambiguity. However, this creates a growing disconnect between military law and civilian life, where cannabis is now legal for medical or recreational use in most states. Efforts to soften the stance—such as easing recruitment standards for past marijuana use or eliminating pre-enlistment testing—have emerged, largely driven by recruitment challenges, but these changes stop far short of allowing active-duty use.

Medical marijuana presents an even more complex issue. Despite mounting evidence and widespread state-level acceptance, active-duty service members are barred from using cannabis for any medical purpose, even with a doctor’s recommendation. The federal classification of marijuana has historically been a key barrier, though potential reclassification from Schedule I to Schedule III could signal a shift toward recognizing medical value. Still, even with reclassification, military and federal employment policies may continue to restrict its use due to concerns about judgment, reliability, and security clearances.

For veterans, the landscape is slightly more permissive—but still restrictive. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not allow its doctors to prescribe medical marijuana, and until recently, even recommending it was largely off-limits due to federal law. However, policy discussions and legislative proposals in 2025 and 2026 suggest incremental change. Some measures would allow VA doctors to discuss or recommend cannabis in states where it is legal, though they still cannot prescribe it or cover its cost. Importantly, veterans will not lose VA benefits for participating in state-approved medical marijuana programs, and providers can include cannabis use in treatment planning.

This evolving stance highlights a broader contradiction in federal policy, particularly when compared to the military and VA’s historical reliance on opioids and other powerful pharmaceuticals. For years, opioids have been widely prescribed to service members and veterans to manage pain, despite well-documented risks of addiction and overdose. Critics argue cannabis—often viewed as less addictive and with fewer severe side effects—has been unfairly restricted while more dangerous substances were readily available through official channels.

Meanwhile, hemp-derived products, including non-psychoactive CBD and emerging hemp beverages, remain largely off-limits to active-duty personnel due to concerns about trace THC content and failed drug tests. This cautious approach underscores the military’s preference for absolute clarity over nuanced regulation, even as the commercial market for hemp and cannabis alternatives continues to expand rapidly in civilian life.

Among veterans, however, attitudes toward cannabis are shifting quickly. Many former service members advocate for expanded access to medical marijuana as a treatment for conditions such as PTSD, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injuries. Anecdotal evidence and advocacy groups point to cannabis as a viable alternative to opioids and other pharmaceuticals, fueling ongoing pressure on Congress and federal agencies to modernize policies.

In sum, the U.S. military remains firmly opposed to cannabis use within its ranks, grounded in federal law and institutional priorities around discipline and readiness. Yet beneath the rigidity, incremental changes are emerging—particularly for veterans—reflecting a broader national reevaluation of marijuana’s role in medicine and society. The tension between prohibition and acceptance is unlikely to resolve quickly, but it is increasingly clear the military’s stance, like the country itself, is in transition.

Can Cannabis Help Your Body Bounce Back Faster

Amy Hansen

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April 10, 2026

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Can Cannabis Help Your Body Bounce Back Faster

Micro-recovery and cannabis: a modern approach to stress, energy, and daily reset

Micro-recovery is quickly becoming the wellness concept resonating with people who feel they cannot afford to slow down. Instead of waiting for a full day off or a long vacation to reset, the idea centers on small, intentional breaks which help the body and mind recover in real time. From 20-minute naps to breathing exercises and short walks, micro-recovery reflects a broader cultural shift away from burnout and toward sustainable performance. Can cannabis help your body bounce back faster – the topic is entering the conversation as a potential tool to support this new approach.

For many professionals, the workday no longer has clear boundaries. Emails extend into the evening, screens dominate attention, and stress can feel constant. Micro-recovery offers a practical solution: brief, strategic pauses designed to lower stress hormones, restore focus, and prevent fatigue from compounding. Rather than pushing through exhaustion, people are learning to reset before burnout takes hold.

Cannabis, particularly in low doses, is increasingly being explored as part of this equation. Unlike traditional use centered on relaxation at the end of the day, today’s consumers are experimenting with more functional applications. Small amounts of THC or CBD may help calm the nervous system, ease mental tension, and make it easier to transition between tasks. For some, this means taking a short break in the afternoon to reset mentally. For others, it may involve replacing an evening glass of wine with a more controlled and potentially less disruptive option.

The science behind this trend is still developing, but early research into the body’s endocannabinoid system offers insight. This system plays a role in maintaining balance across functions like mood, stress response, and sleep. By interacting with these receptors, cannabis compounds may help support the body’s natural effort to return to equilibrium, especially during periods of heightened stress.

Real-world use cases highlight why this trend is gaining traction. A creative professional might use a low-dose edible before a 20-minute rest to enhance relaxation and mental clarity afterward. A busy executive could step away for a short walk paired with CBD to reduce anxiety before an important meeting. Others are simply using cannabis to create a clearer boundary between work and personal time, helping them reset without fully disengaging from the day.

However, experts caution intention and moderation are key. Micro-recovery is about improving function, not avoiding responsibility. Overuse or poorly timed consumption can lead to the opposite effect, including reduced motivation or lingering fatigue. Finding the right balance often involves experimenting with dosage, timing, and product type.

As wellness trends continue to evolve, cannabis is increasingly being viewed through a new lens. It is no longer just about recreation, but about how it fits into a broader toolkit including sleep optimization, mindfulness, and stress management. Micro-recovery reflects this shift, offering a way to stay productive while still prioritizing health.

In a culture which rarely pauses, the ability to reset in small, meaningful ways may be one of the most valuable skills of all.

Can Cannabis Help With Hypertension

Amy Hansen

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April 10, 2026

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New research links gut health and inflammation to hypertension, positioning cannabis as a potential tool in modern blood pressure management.

A growing wave of research is reshaping how scientists understand hypertension, one of the world’s most persistent and dangerous health conditions. Traditionally linked to salt intake, stress, and genetics, high blood pressure is now increasingly tied to a surprising source: the gut. Emerging data highlighted in a recent ScienceAlert report suggests researchers may have identified a new underlying cause of hypertension—imbalances in the gut microbiome—and, importantly, new ways to treat it. So can cannabis help with hypertension in general and this new development?

This evolving science opens the door to fresh conversations about cannabis and its potential role in supporting cardiovascular health.

Recent studies indicate that gut microbiota—the trillions of bacteria living in the digestive tract—play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. When this ecosystem becomes imbalanced, it can trigger inflammation, disrupt immune responses, and affect vascular function, all of which contribute to hypertension.

Researchers have found people with high blood pressure often exhibit reduced microbial diversity and increased levels of harmful bacteria. These changes can lead to the production of metabolites that raise blood pressure, while beneficial compounds like short-chain fatty acids—known to help regulate vascular tone—are diminished.

Cannabis interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network that helps regulate mood, inflammation, appetite, and cardiovascular function. This system also plays a role in maintaining balance—or homeostasis—within the body, including the gut.

One of the most compelling links between cannabis and blood pressure lies in its anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is a key driver of both gut imbalance and hypertension. By reducing inflammatory signaling, cannabinoids like CBD may help address one of the root contributors to elevated blood pressure.

Additionally, cannabis may influence the gut microbiome itself. While research is still emerging, studies suggest cannabis use is associated with changes in gene expression and biological pathways, including those tied to immune and metabolic function. This raises the possibility that cannabis could indirectly support healthier gut activity—an important factor in the new hypertension model.

The relationship between cannabis and blood pressure is nuanced. Short-term use can temporarily raise heart rate and alter blood pressure, but long-term data tells a more complex story.

A major longitudinal study found that lifetime cannabis use did not significantly increase the risk of developing hypertension, challenging long-held assumptions about its cardiovascular impact.

At the same time, some research warns that certain forms of cannabis consumption—particularly smoking—may impair blood vessel function and contribute to cardiovascular stress. This suggests that how cannabis is used (method, dosage, and cannabinoid profile) matters greatly.

As science continues to uncover the gut’s role in blood pressure regulation, treatments are likely to expand beyond traditional medications. Diet, probiotics, and microbiome-targeted therapies are already being explored—and cannabis may eventually join that list.

While it is not a standalone cure, cannabis could become part of a broader, more holistic strategy for managing hypertension. Its potential to reduce inflammation, interact with the ECS, and possibly influence gut health positions it as an intriguing option in this new paradigm.

Still, experts caution that more clinical research is needed. As with any health intervention, individuals should consult medical professionals before incorporating cannabis into a blood pressure management plan.

In the meantime, one thing is clear: the science of hypertension is evolving—and cannabis is increasingly part of the conversation.

Could Fast Food Kiosks Help The Cannabis Industry

Amy Hansen

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April 8, 2026

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Could fast food kiosks help the cannabis industry unlock higher sales, lower costs, and more comfortable customer experiences?

As AI and automation reshapes retail, one unlikely inspiration for marijuana dispensaries is emerging from the fast food world. Could fast food kiosks help the cannabis industry? Popularized by brands like McDonald’s, kiosks have transformed how customers order, subtly influencing behavior while improving operational efficiency. For a cannabis industry facing tight margins, regulatory hurdles, and evolving consumer expectations, the kiosk model may offer a compelling path forward.

At the core of kiosk success is psychology. Studies in consumer behavior consistently show customers feel less judged when ordering from a screen instead of a human. This “reduced social friction” leads to more exploration, customization, and ultimately, higher spending. Without the perceived pressure of a line or a cashier, customers are more likely to browse add-ons, upgrades, and premium products. McDonald’s reported noticeable increases in average order value after implementing kiosks, largely driven by upselling prompts and visual menus encouraging indulgence.

Kiosks also tap into what behavioral economists call the “paradox of choice.” While too many options can overwhelm, well-designed digital interfaces guide users through curated selections. Suggestive selling—like adding fries or a drink—becomes seamless and data-driven. Other chains such as Panera Bread and Shake Shack have embraced kiosks not just for efficiency, but for consistency in upselling and customer experience.

Beyond psychology, the operational benefits are significant. Kiosks reduce reliance on front-line staff, allowing businesses to reallocate labor toward food preparation or customer service where it matters most. They also minimize order errors, streamline peak-hour traffic, and provide valuable data on customer preferences.

Translating this model to cannabis dispensaries presents intriguing opportunities. First, kiosks could help normalize and simplify the purchasing experience, especially for new or occasional users who may feel intimidated asking questions in person. A digital interface can discreetly guide customers through product categories—flower, edibles, vapes—while offering educational prompts about dosage, effects, and strain types.

Second, kiosks can increase basket size. Just as fast food systems suggest adding a dessert, a dispensary kiosk could recommend complementary products: a pre-roll with a beverage enhancer, or a CBD tincture alongside a THC product. Because cannabis purchases are often exploratory, guided suggestions can significantly boost sales while enhancing customer satisfaction.

Third, labor efficiency is a major advantage. Dispensaries often require highly trained staff to manage compliance and customer education. By shifting routine ordering to kiosks, businesses can reduce staffing costs or redeploy employees into advisory roles, focusing on high-value interactions rather than transactional ones. This hybrid model—automation plus expertise—can elevate the overall experience.

There are already early adopters. Some dispensaries in states like California and Nevada have begun experimenting with tablet-based ordering systems or kiosk-style check-ins. While still nascent, these efforts mirror the early days of fast food digitization, suggesting a broader shift may be coming.

Of course, challenges remain. Regulatory compliance, age verification, and payment processing are more complex in cannabis than in fast food. User interface design must also balance simplicity with education, ensuring customers make informed decisions.

Still, the parallels are compelling. If fast food kiosks have proven technology can increase order size, reduce costs, and improve customer comfort, there is little doubt similar principles could benefit cannabis retail. As the industry matures, borrowing proven strategies from mainstream sectors may be the key to sustainable growth—and kiosks could be one of the most impactful tools yet.

Consuming Cannabis Alone Can Be Good For Your Wellness

Sarah Johns

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April 7, 2026

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Why consuming marijuana alone is becoming a popular personal retreat for relaxation, mindfulness, and modern self-care routines

Consuming cannabis alone can be good for your wellness and is emerging as a modern ritual, offering calm, clarity, and a deeply personal form of relaxation. In an increasingly noisy world, it is becoming a popular way to tune out social media and tech distractions and let the mind relax and unwind. While social cannabis use often gets the spotlight, solo consumption is quietly gaining traction among those seeking a mindful escape, stress relief, and a chance to reconnect with themselves. For many, it functions as a kind of personal retreat—an intentional pause blending self-care with sensory enjoyment.

In today’s fast-paced culture, carving out time for solitude can feel like a luxury. Cannabis, when used responsibly, can help facilitate the space. Whether it’s unwinding after a long day, easing tension, or simply slowing down racing thoughts, solo marijuana use allows individuals to control their environment, pace, and experience. There’s no pressure to socialize or keep up with others—just the opportunity to be present.

For men in particular, this trend is evolving into what some are calling a “bro-spa” experience. Think of it as a low-key, at-home wellness session: a favorite playlist, comfortable surroundings, perhaps a good book or a movie, and a carefully chosen cannabis product. It’s not about excess, but about intention. Edibles, low-dose flower, or a calming vape can complement activities like stretching, gaming, journaling, or even just sitting quietly and decompressing.

The appeal lies in its simplicity. Unlike more elaborate wellness routines, solo cannabis use doesn’t require expensive memberships or appointments. It’s accessible and adaptable. Some prefer a creative angle, using cannabis to enhance music appreciation or artistic expression. Others lean into its calming properties, pairing it with meditation or breathing exercises. In either case, the experience is tailored entirely to the individual.

There is also a growing conversation around mental health and the importance of personal downtime. Solo cannabis consumption, when approached thoughtfully, can be part of the broader self-care strategy. It can encourage reflection, reduce anxiety for some users, and create a buffer against daily stressors. Of course, moderation and awareness are key, as effects can vary widely depending on the strain, dosage, and individual tolerance.

Importantly, the normalization of solo cannabis use reflects a shift in how people view both marijuana and personal wellness. It’s no longer just a social activity or a counterculture symbol—it’s becoming integrated into routines prioritizing balance and well-being. As legalization continues to expand and stigma declines, more individuals are exploring cannabis as a tool for relaxation on their own terms.

In the end, consuming marijuana alone is less about isolation and more about intentional solitude. It’s a chance to reset, recharge, and enjoy a moment of calm in a way feeling both modern and deeply personal. Whether framed as a personal retreat or a “bro-spa” ritual, it represents a new chapter in how people engage with cannabis and themselves.

DC Is Making Moves With Marijuana

Anthony Washington

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April 7, 2026

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DC cannabis laws evolve for consumers while mar use remains restricted, medical market expands, and brewery partnerships signal industry shift

DC is making moves with marijuana with the shadow of the Federal Government watching. The district has long occupied a unique and often frustrating position in America’s evolving marijuana landscape. While the nation’s capital legalized personal cannabis use more than a decade ago, it remains caught in a political gray zone—where local reform efforts continue to inch forward even as Congress and the White House sit just blocks away, slow to act.

The current state of marijuana in the District reflects the contradiction. Since voters overwhelmingly approved Initiative 71 in 2014, adults 21 and older can legally possess, grow, and gift cannabis. However, the District is still prohibited from establishing a fully regulated retail market due to congressional restrictions. This has led to the now-infamous “gifting economy,” where businesses skirt the law by selling items like T-shirts or stickers and including cannabis as a “gift.”

Despite these limitations, D.C.’s medical marijuana program has steadily expanded and is now the backbone of the city’s legal cannabis industry. Medical dispensaries operate openly, serving registered patients with regulated products, and lawmakers have increasingly leaned on this system to introduce innovation and growth.

The latest example is a notable new push to merge cannabis with the city’s craft beverage scene. Mayor Muriel Bowser has introduced legislation allowing local breweries and distilleries to partner with licensed medical cannabis companies to produce cannabis-infused, alcohol-free beverages. These drinks would be manufactured using existing brewing infrastructure but sold exclusively through medical cannabis dispensaries—not bars or restaurants.

Supporters say the move is both practical and strategic. It addresses production bottlenecks in the cannabis industry while offering struggling breweries a new revenue stream. It also reflects broader consumer trends, as younger Americans increasingly shift away from alcohol and toward cannabis alternatives.

Still, even these incremental advances underscore a larger frustration: Washington, D.C. cannot fully regulate its own cannabis market. Congress continues to include provisions in federal spending bills blocking the District from legalizing recreational sales, even as dozens of states have moved ahead with full commercial markets.

The irony is hard to ignore. The epicenter of American political power—home to both Congress and the White House—remains one of the most constrained cannabis jurisdictions in the country. Federal law still classifies marijuana as illegal, and the tension plays out daily in the District, where local autonomy is limited and federal land—nearly a third of the city—operates under different rules. The current administration has taken a heavy hand with DC and has waffled with cannabis.

As 2026 unfolds, D.C. is once again making “marijuana moves,” but they are careful, incremental, and often workaround-driven. Whether through medical program expansion or innovative partnerships like cannabis beverages, the city continues to push forward—albeit with one hand tied behind its back.

Until Congress acts, Washington, D.C. will remain a paradox: a place where cannabis is legal, but not quite free.

The President’s Inner Circle Stands on Marijuana

Terry Hacienda

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April 6, 2026

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The President’s Inner Circle Stands on Marijuana

The president’s Cabinet Cannabis Policy 2026: Where top officials stand on marijuana legalization, enforcement, and federal reform

As cannabis legalization expands across the United States, the stance of top federal officials remains a critical factor in determining the pace—and limits—of reform. With recent shakeups, what the President’s inner circle stands on marijuana? The economy is shakey and there is new leadership at the Department of Justice and Homeland Security, so now could be a could be a good time for a smart move. The industry is anxious as the administration’s approach to marijuana policy evolves in real time.

Vice President: JD Vance

Vice President Vance has taken a cautious but pragmatic tone on cannabis. While not an outspoken supporter of legalization, he has acknowledged the disconnect between federal law and state-level legalization. His approach leans toward states’ rights, suggesting tolerance rather than proactive reform.

Attorney General (Acting): Todd Blanche

As Acting Attorney General, Blanche steps into a pivotal role overseeing federal cannabis enforcement. While he has not built a public record on marijuana policy, acting leadership typically signals continuity. Expect a measured approach—maintaining current enforcement norms while avoiding sweeping changes on legalization or prosecution priorities.

Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles

Wiles remains a behind-the-scenes power player. While she has no public cannabis stance, her influence on policy prioritization and messaging is significant. She is expected to align cannabis positioning with broader political strategy rather than drive policy herself.

Senior Advisor: Stephen Miller

Miller continues to represent one of the more hardline voices in the administration. His broader emphasis on law enforcement and federal authority suggests skepticism toward legalization, particularly if framed as a public safety issue.

The Rise of the “Sober-ish” Guy — Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks

Cabinet Secretaries

Secretary of State: Marco Rubio

Rubio has historically opposed recreational marijuana legalization, citing concerns about health and social impact. While he has softened slightly in support of medical research, he remains cautious about broader reform.

Secretary of the Treasury: Scott Bessent

Bessent’s role is central to cannabis banking reform and he has been holding his cards close to his chest. Though not publicly vocal, Treasury leadership will influence whether cannabis businesses gain broader access to financial services—a key issue for the industry.

Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth

Hegseth oversees a department where cannabis remains strictly prohibited. He has been active in the ongoing War on Drugs. There is little expectation of change, particularly given military readiness and federal drug policy standards.

Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Kennedy stands out as one of the most cannabis-friendly figures in the cabinet. He has supported legalization and regulation, framing marijuana as both a public health and criminal justice issue. His department could play a key role in rescheduling decisions.

Secretary of Homeland Security: Markwayne Mullin

Mullin brings a law-and-order perspective to DHS. His focus is expected to remain on illicit trafficking and border enforcement rather than state-legal cannabis markets. While not central to legalization debates, DHS under Mullin will influence how federal authorities handle interstate and cross-border cannabis issues.

Secretary of Commerce: Howard Lutnick

Lutnick is likely to view cannabis through an economic lens. As federal restrictions evolve, Commerce could play a role in normalization, especially regarding interstate trade and industry growth.

Secretary of Labor: Lori Chavez-DeRemer

Chavez-DeRemer has shown moderate openness on workforce-related cannabis issues, including employee protections and workplace policies tied to legalization.

Secretary of Energy: Chris Wright

Wright has not taken a clear public stance. However, cannabis cultivation’s energy use and environmental footprint could bring the issue into his policy orbit.

Secretary of Education: Linda McMahon

McMahon has expressed support for medical marijuana, noting its benefits in 2019. While she has not been directly linked to owning cannabis companies, her son, Shane McMahon, previously invested $500,000 in a Connecticut-based cannabis cultivation tech startup called EnviroGrow in 2015. The Federal educations programs under her are expected to continue focusing on prevention messaging.

Secretary of Veterans Affairs: Doug Collins

Collins has expressed openness to medical cannabis, particularly for veterans dealing with PTSD and chronic pain—an area of growing bipartisan interest.

Secretary of Agriculture: Brooke Rollins

Rollins’ focus leans more toward hemp than marijuana, but regulatory overlap keeps her relevant. She is expected to support agricultural innovation within federal limits.

Secretary of Transportation: Sean Duffy

Duffy has emphasized safety concerns, especially around impaired driving. His stance suggests a cautious, enforcement-oriented approach.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Scott Turner

Turner has not prioritized cannabis policy publicly, though federal housing restrictions on marijuana use remain an ongoing issue.

Secretary of the Interior: Doug Burgum

Burgum brings a pragmatic perspective shaped by state-level legalization trends. His department could influence cannabis policy on federal lands and tribal jurisdictions.

With Todd Blanche now overseeing the Justice Department and Markwayne Mullin leading DHS, the administration’s cannabis policy appears to be entering a more transitional and enforcement-focused phase. The cabinet reflects a spectrum—from reform-friendly voices like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to more cautious or skeptical figures like Marco Rubio and Stephen Miller. But all take their direction from the president.

For the cannabis industry and advocates, the takeaway is clear: federal reform is still possible, but it will likely come incrementally—shaped less by sweeping ideology and more by regulatory, economic, and political realities inside a shifting administration.

Marijuana At The End Of Life

Amy Hansen

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April 6, 2026

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As acceptance grows nationwide, marijuana at end-of-life care is reshaping comfort, dignity, and patient choice in final days.

Cannabis, long associated with counterculture and controversy, is increasingly being embraced in one of medicine’s most sensitive arenas: marijuana at end-of-life care. Across the United States, patients, families, and even traditionally cautious healthcare systems are reconsidering cannabis as a tool not just for treatment—but for comfort, dignity, and peace in life’s final chapter.

Hospice and palliative care focus on managing symptoms rather than curing disease, prioritizing quality of life for those facing terminal illness. In this setting, cannabis is gaining attention for its ability to address a wide range of physical and emotional challenges. Chronic pain, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, and loss of appetite are among the most common symptoms experienced by patients nearing the end of life, and studies suggest cannabis may help alleviate many of them.

What is particularly notable is the growing support among medical professionals. Surveys of hospice providers consistently show overwhelming approval of medical cannabis use in end-of-life care, with roughly 90 percent or more expressing support for its role in improving patient comfort. This marks a significant shift in a field which historically relied on powerful pharmaceuticals like opioids and sedatives—drugs which can dull pain but often leave patients heavily sedated and disconnected.

Cannabis, by contrast, is increasingly viewed as a complementary or alternative option which may allow patients to remain more alert and engaged. Some clinicians and caregivers report patients using cannabis are better able to interact with loved ones, enjoy food, and maintain a sense of presence during their final days. In a space where every moment matters, the distinction can be profound.

Even states traditionally slow to embrace marijuana reform are beginning to recognize its potential in this context. Louisiana, for example—long known for its cultural acceptance of alcohol but cautious approach to cannabis—has expanded its medical marijuana program in recent years. The inclusion of conditions related to severe and terminal illness reflects a broader shift: when it comes to end-of-life care, compassion often outweighs politics.

Still, barriers remain. Federal restrictions, inconsistent state laws, and a lack of standardized medical guidelines continue to limit access and create uncertainty for providers. Many hospice programs do not formally integrate cannabis into care plans, leaving patients and families to navigate its use independently. Yet demand continues to grow, driven largely by patients themselves.

At its core, the conversation around cannabis in end-of-life care is not just about medicine—it is about humanity. Dying is an intensely personal experience, and the goal of hospice is to make the transition as comfortable and meaningful as possible. For some, cannabis offers relief not only from physical pain but also from the emotional weight of facing mortality.

Equally important is the impact on loved ones. Watching a family member suffer through their final days can be deeply distressing. When patients are more comfortable, less anxious, and more present, it can transform the experience for those at the bedside. It allows for clearer conversations, shared moments, and a sense of peace often otherwise difficult to achieve.

As acceptance continues to grow, cannabis is emerging as more than an alternative therapy—it is becoming a compassionate option in the evolving landscape of end-of-life care, helping patients pass with greater comfort and giving families the gift of a more peaceful goodbye.

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The president’s Cabinet Cannabis Policy 2026: Where top officials stand on marijuana legalization, enforcement, and federal reform

Vice President: JD Vance

Attorney General (Acting): Todd Blanche

Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles

Senior Advisor: Stephen Miller

Cabinet Secretaries

Secretary of State: Marco Rubio

Secretary of the Treasury: Scott Bessent

Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth

Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Secretary of Homeland Security: Markwayne Mullin

Secretary of Commerce: Howard Lutnick

Secretary of Labor: Lori Chavez-DeRemer

Secretary of Energy: Chris Wright

Secretary of Education: Linda McMahon

Secretary of Veterans Affairs: Doug Collins

Secretary of Agriculture: Brooke Rollins

Secretary of Transportation: Sean Duffy

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: Scott Turner

Secretary of the Interior: Doug Burgum

As acceptance grows nationwide, marijuana at end-of-life care is reshaping comfort, dignity, and patient choice in final days.

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